North Korea is dismantling a facility at its Mount Kumgang resort used for reunions of families separated by the Korean War, South Korea said on Thursday, calling the move a violation of humanitarian principles.
Seoul’s Unification Ministry, which oversees inter-Korean affairs, urged Pyongyang to stop the destruction of the site, located near the heavily fortified Korean border.
📢 "The demolition of the facility is an anti-humanitarian act that tramples on the wishes of separated families," the ministry said, adding it would explore legal measures and coordinate a response with the international community.
Rising Tensions Between the Koreas
Relations between North and South Korea have worsened in recent years:
âš Pyongyang has designated Seoul a "hostile state"
âš In 2023, North Korea scrapped a military accord designed to prevent accidental clashes
âš Last year, North Korea blew up sections of inter-Korean roads and rail lines
South Korea responded by firing warning shots and suspending parts of the 2018 military agreement designed to ease tensions.
Signs of Reopening Despite Tensions
Despite the escalating rhetoric, North Korea is showing signs of reopening after more than five years of strict border closures due to COVID-19.
📢 Beijing-based Koryo Tours announced on Thursday that tours to North Korea are "officially back", with its staff allowed to enter the Rason area. The company hopes this signals the gradual return of tourism.
North Korea has not commented on the Mount Kumgang demolition, leaving uncertainty over the future of inter-Korean exchanges.
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South Korean President Lee Jae Myung said on Wednesday (7 January), that significant progress has been made in restoring trust with China. He also reiterated that relations with Japan are equally important for Seoul’s diplomacy amid shifting regional dynamics.
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